Claude E. Gagna

Claude E. Gagna is a Professor at the New York Institute of Technology (NYIT), Department of Biological and Chemical Sciences, with adjunct roles at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School (Departments of Pathology and Dermatology). He joined NYIT in 1999 and holds credentials including Ph.D., ChE, CChem MRSC, FAIC, CPC, FSB. His research focuses on molecular biology, DNA nanotechnology, and anatomical sciences, particularly exploring non-canonical DNA structures (Z-DNA, quadruplex DNA) in health and disease. He develops novel diagnostic assays (e.g., B-DNA dermatophyte assay) and advanced microarray technologies for drug discovery.

Education: B.S. Biology (St. Peter's University), M.S. Human Anatomy (Fairleigh Dickinson University), Ph.D. Basic Medical Sciences (NYU). Postdoctoral training at NYU and Rutgers. Research collaborations include major universities and medical institutions. He teaches courses in Histology, Anatomy, Molecular Biology, and Biomedical Research.

Research interests span DNA/RNA structure-function relationships, cell death mechanisms (apoptosis, denucleation), and spatial genomic organization (genomesorganizomics). His work integrates bioinformatics, AI-driven pathology, and nanotechnology. Notable contributions include patent development, over 170 publications, and innovations in medical education through tailored lab manuals and STEM outreach.

Awards include the 2025 Long Island Health Care Heroes Innovation Award, NYIT's 2020 Outstanding Faculty, and recognition for veterans support (2011 U.S. Army Gold Medal). He also pursues BioArt using preserved animal tissue DNA to blend science and art, addressing themes like biodiversity and social justice.